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The FAA has approved the TKS ice-protection system for Quest Aircraft's Kodiak turboprop, just in time for winter flying. The TKS system, which is approved for flight into known icing (FIKI), is manufactured by CAV Aerospace. "Ice protection ... will greatly enhance the aircraft's safety and dispatch reliability," said Quest CEO Paul Schaller. "We have seen interest from all of our key market segments, including personal use, Part 135 operations, government, corporate, special operations and humanitarian organizations." The TKS system works by "weeping" glycol-based fluid through laser-drilled microscopic holes. It protects wing leading edges as well as tail surfaces, landing gear, struts, and the windshield and propeller. The system can be retrofitted to any of the Kodiak fleet.

The Kodiak is a 10-seat single-engine turboprop designed for rugged backcountry use, and can fly with wheels or floats. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6 turbine engine, the Kodiak can take off in less than 1,000 feet at full gross weight. Three-panel Garmin G1000 avionics are standard equipment. Quest Aircraft Co., based in Sandpoint, Idaho, was established in 2001 and started deliveries in 2007. CAV Aerospace, based in Salina, Kan., has installed more than 6,000 icing systems on a variety of aircraft.

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Picture of the Week

As aviation photos go, this was the best this week but there are some great beauty shots when you click through. In the meantime, congratulations to Daniel Gillette for this very nice photo he calls Sunset Pitch-Out. The photo is copyrighted by Gillette.